Kalia Vandever (Interview)

Good morning.

Today we’re listening to Kalia Vandever, a trombonist and bandleader based in Brooklyn. She grew up in Los Angeles, started playing trombone at age eight, and went on to study music at Juilliard, graduating in 2017.¹ She’s put out two records with her quartet, Regrowth from 2022 and In Bloom from 2019 – we’re playing the former today. Last year she released her debut solo record, We Fell In Turn, on which she draws out and layers trombone using effects pedals. A short conversation with Vandever follows the streaming links.

We Fell In Turn - Kalia Vandever (30m, no vocals)
Spotify / Apple Music / YouTube Music / Amazon Music / Bandcamp / Tidal

Regrowth - Kalia Vandever (40m, no vocals)
Spotify / Apple Music / YouTube Music / Amazon Music / Bandcamp / Tidal

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What's your earliest memory of music?

My earliest memory of music is hearing my dad play Louis Armstrong records around the house. He’s always been a fan of Jazz music, especially Louis Armstrong, so I remember growing up and being immersed in that world pretty early on.

Who were the first trombonists you heard who awakened your appreciation of the instrument?

J.J. Johnson is one of the first trombonists who deeply inspired and motivated me to play the instrument. I was in awe of his fluidity and ease on the instrument, as well as his approach to improvisation and sound. Slide Hampton is another trombonist whose approach is incredibly unique and captured my ear the first time I heard him play.

We Fell In Turn is a departure from your previous records with your quartet. What were the life experiences and musical inspirations that pointed you toward the solo, almost ambient style you pursued on that record?

I began my journey playing solo right before the pandemic because I’ve always enjoyed experiencing solo performances and seeing the way an artist deals with the vulnerability and openness. Once the pandemic hit, I delved into my solo process even more and found a closeness with the sonic landscape, as well as the meditative nature of ambient music.

What are some new jazz records from the past couple years that we should listen to?

• Owl Song - Ambrose Akinmusire

• Night Reign - Arooj Aftab

• Perceive Its Beauty, Acknowledge Its Grace - Shabaka

What are your favorite jazz clubs in New York?

The Jazz Gallery, Bar Bayeux, and The Village Vanguard

Name an underrated musician from the past 50 years.

She passed in the late ‘80s, and I discovered her only a few years ago, but I think Elizabeth Cotten should be mentioned more.

What are you working on next?

I’ll be recording my next solo and quartet records this year, so stay tuned!

1. Bandcamp Daily